Police have renewed an appeal to find the killers of a teenager shot dead in his Clapham home seven years ago on Valentine's Day.

Billy Cox, 15, was held by his 12-year-old sister Elizabeth while he bled to death after being shot in the chest in the family home in Cottage Grove, Fenwick Place.

Mr Cox left Acre Lane, Brixton, at 2.36pm and made his way home on the evening of his death.

His sister returned home but as she neared the door heard a loud bang from inside and when she entered the room she found her brother dying.

Paramedics battled to save his life but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

But now police and his family believe Billy could have known his killer as there was no forced entry into the home.

Detective Sergeant Peter Hine, of Trident, said: "As time passes people's lifestyles and allegiances can change and these people may want to help us get justice for Billy's family.

"After seven years, we believe that anyone who knows who killed Billy Cox should feel that they can tell police what they know.

"We will treat all calls in the utmost confidence and urge you to pick up the phone, for the sake of Billy's family."

Maureen Salkilld, the teenager's aunt, said the family struggle to come to terms with the lack of persecution for the youngster's death.

She said: "Billy would be 23 this year with the best of his life still to come.

"This is why when we see his friends attending his service, we can't help but imagine what he would be like now.

"It makes it even more sad seeing these friends knowing that some know exactly who the person is responsible for Billy's death.

"One day we hope justice is done, before another life is needlessly taken.

"As yet the people that know who committed the crime have not spoken out, Billy was very loyal to his friends, so we ask that his loyalty be returned.

In June 2007 police arrested five men in Clapham and in 2008 another man was arrested on suspicion of murder, but all were released without charge.

Anyone with information can call 020 8247 4553 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


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